Adam Silver sees path to more competitive NBA All-Star Game

SAN FRANCISCO — In an effort to improve the intensity of recent NBA All-Star Games, NBA commissioner Adam Silver revealed that he has been in discussions with 13-time All-Star Chris Paul. According to Silver, Paul pointed out the various pregame and halftime distractions that interfere with the players’ normal game-day routines.

According to Silver, Paul expressed his concern over the interruption of their typical routines due to elaborate introductions and extended halftime entertainment. Silver acknowledges the role of these distractions in sending mixed signals to the players and taking away from the game’s intensity.

Moving forward, the NBA plans to rectify this issue. The 2024 NBA All-Star Game, to be held on February 18 at the Indiana Pacers’ Gainbridge Fieldhouse, will feature shorter and less elaborate pregame introductions and halftime performances. This adjustment aims to create a more typical and focused game experience for the players.

Additionally, the NBA All-Star Game will revert to its traditional Eastern Conference vs. Western Conference format, eliminating the captain selection process that has been in place for the past six years. While returning to the old format does not guarantee increased intensity, Silver remains optimistic that these changes will lead to a better All-Star Game.

To emphasize the importance of effort, NBA executive vice president and head of basketball operations, Joe Dumars, will work closely with the All-Stars. The goal is to convey the message that the All-Star Game should still be approached with a competitive mindset, even if it’s not at the level of a Finals game.

Despite aiming for a more focused game, the NBA will still incorporate halftime entertainment. However, the routines will be shortened to allow a more reasonable amount of time for the players to return to the court.

Other adjustments include eliminating the target score in the fourth quarter and returning to a standard 12-minute, four-quarter contest.

According to former Golden State Warriors star Chris Mullin, who played in five All-Star Games during his career, having superstar players like Magic Johnson and Larry Bird set the standard for competitiveness. Mullin believes that the top players need to approach the game with the same intensity because they will ultimately face each other in the NBA Finals.